CDL Combination Vehicles TestDriving Combination Vehicles SafelyEasy
A commercial driver operating a combination vehicle is preparing to make a left turn at an intersection with a traffic island. To avoid striking the island with the trailer, what is the best strategy?
- AStop before the intersection and wait for all other traffic to clear before attempting the turn.
- BBegin the turn from the far left lane and cut the turn sharply.
- CApproach the intersection in the left lane, pass the center of the intersection, and then begin the left turn.
- DApproach the intersection in the rightmost lane and swing wide to the right before initiating the left turn.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Approach the intersection in the left lane, pass the center of the intersection, and then begin the left turn.
When making a left turn with a combination vehicle, it is crucial to avoid cutting the corner short, as the trailer will follow a shorter path than the tractor. Passing the center of the intersection before turning allows enough room for the trailer to clear the traffic island without collision.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While waiting for traffic is safe, it doesn't address the specific technique for navigating the turn with a combination vehicle to avoid striking the island.
- B. Cutting the turn sharply will likely cause the trailer to strike the traffic island or curb.
- D. Swinging wide to the right before a left turn is dangerous, as it can confuse other drivers and invite them to pass on your left, creating a collision hazard.
Combination Vehicle Left Turns
When making a left turn with a combination vehicle, pass the center of the intersection before turning to ensure the trailer clears the corner.
- Trailers follow a shorter path than the tractor.
- Passing the center prevents the trailer from hitting curbs or islands.
- Avoid swinging wide to the right before a left turn.
Memory trick: Left Turn, Long Path, Less Trouble.